Oh my goodness, if you’re in need of a quick, flavorful meal that feels like a big hug from the inside, you’ve got to try my creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet! Seriously, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s a one-pan wonder that packs in so much flavor without any fuss. I remember the first time I whipped this up after a long day at work; I was craving something comforting yet easy, and this skillet dish did not disappoint! The tender steak, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta come together in a delightful symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This recipe is all about convenience without sacrificing taste. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table that feels indulgent, yet it’s so simple to make. Trust me, once you taste that creamy goodness, you’ll be wondering how you lived without it!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb steak, cut into strips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Creamy Cajun Steak Cheddar Penne Skillet
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you, it’ll be a hit. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
First things first, grab a large pot and fill it with water—about 4 to 6 quarts should do the trick. Bring that water to a rolling boil and generously salt it (think like the ocean!). Once it’s boiling, toss in the 8 oz of penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Trust me, you don’t want it mushy! Drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
Now, let’s get that steak sizzling! In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers (this means it’s ready!). Add your 1 lb of steak strips to the pan, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and the Cajun seasoning. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s beautifully browned. You want that perfect sear for flavor! Once it’s cooked through, transfer the steak to a plate and keep it warm while we move on to the veggies.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper. Sauté those beauties for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent. Oh wow, the aroma is already fantastic! If you need to, scrape up any delicious brown bits from the steak—that’s pure flavor right there!
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Alright, time for the creamy goodness! Lower the heat a bit and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer; you’ll know it’s ready when you start to see little bubbles forming around the edges. Stir occasionally and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This is where the magic begins, and your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Now, let’s bring it all together! Add the cooked penne pasta and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese melts into that creamy sauce and coats the pasta beautifully. If it looks too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. Perfectly creamy and oh-so-delicious! Serve it hot and watch your friends and family devour every last bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love penne for this creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet, you can swap it out for any pasta you have on hand—rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti work great. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. It’ll give your dish that spicy kick without the store-bought mix!
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
While this creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet is best served fresh, you can prep some ingredients in advance! Chop your veggies and cook your steak ahead of time. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to eat. It’ll save you time on busy nights!
How can I make this dish lighter?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, try substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a low-fat cream alternative. You’ll still get that creamy texture but with fewer calories!
What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet meal is pretty filling on its own, but if you want to add some sides, a fresh garden salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with it. Just think of it as a complete meal on the table that everyone will enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze!
- Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta beautifully.
- Flavorful Cajun seasoning adds a kick that everyone will love.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or steak cuts.
- Comfort food at its finest—satisfying and delicious!
- Kid-friendly and a great way to introduce new flavors.
Tips for Success
To make your creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet truly shine, here are some of my favorite pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way!
- Choose the right steak: For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using sirloin or ribeye. They cook up beautifully and add that rich taste we all love!
- Don’t skimp on seasoning: Cajun seasoning is your friend! Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
- Timing is everything: Make sure you don’t overcook the steak. It should be just browned when you remove it from the heat; it’ll continue to cook a bit more when combined with the other ingredients.
- Use freshly grated cheese: Trust me, freshly shredded cheddar melts much better than pre-packaged cheese. It gives you that creamy, gooey texture that’s just to die for!
- Save some pasta water: When you drain your penne, save a cup of that starchy pasta water. It can help loosen up the sauce if it thickens too much and adds a touch of richness!
- Add greens: For a pop of color and nutrition, consider tossing in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They wilt down perfectly and add an extra layer of flavor!
With these tips, you’re on your way to crafting the ultimate creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet that will have everyone raving about your cooking skills. Enjoy every moment in the kitchen!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for each serving of my creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
This creamy dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a hearty option for dinner. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something truly satisfying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of my creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet and now you have some leftovers (if you can believe it!). Here’s how to store and reheat them without losing that delicious flavor and creamy texture.
First off, let the skillet cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps keep everything fresh and prevents that dreaded sogginess. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the softer the pasta may get, but it will still taste amazing!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, you can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. If using the stovetop, place the creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help revive that creamy goodness, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. It should only take about 5-7 minutes, and trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine too. Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to prevent splatters), and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking. Keep an eye on it—nobody likes overcooked pasta!
And there you have it! Now you can savor the comforting flavors of this dish even on the busiest of days. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to really enhance your meal experience! Trust me, these sides will elevate your dinner to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterbalance to the rich, creamy pasta. It adds a refreshing crunch that complements the dish beautifully!
- Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce. Plus, it gives your meal that cozy, comforting vibe.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve some steamed broccoli or asparagus on the side. They’re not only colorful, but they also add nutrients and a slight crunch to your plate!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the penne skillet. It’s a great way to add texture and flavor contrast!
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: If you’re feeling adventurous, roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with a bit of balsamic glaze make for a delicious, slightly sweet side that pairs surprisingly well with the Cajun flavors.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: In the summer, nothing beats a sweet, buttery corn on the cob. It’s a fun, interactive side that adds a touch of sweetness to your meal!
These sides not only complement the creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet but also transform your meal into a well-rounded dining experience. So, grab your favorite sides, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a wonderful dinner together!
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Creamy Cajun Steak Cheddar Penne Skillet: 30-Minute Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Cajun steak cheddar penne skillet is a delicious one-pan meal. It combines tender steak, creamy sauce, and flavorful spices with penne pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb steak, cut into strips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add steak strips and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned.
- Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add cooked penne and cheddar cheese. Mix until cheese is melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- Use any steak cut you prefer.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet, one-pan meal, easy dinner
